Cedar Rapids workers have used tractors to deal with buyout properties

Properties bought out due to floods in Iowa are being cared for by municipal workers.
Properties bought out due to floods in Iowa are being cared for by municipal workers.
Used tractors, and other machinery, have been used by officials and citizens in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to deal with growing grasses and weeds located on properties being bought out because of flood problems.

According to news station KCRG, the city has taken on the responsibility of mowing lawns for buyout properties in a flood zone. So far, about 85 homes fall under that category, although more may come in the future.

However, Craig Hanson, a public works maintenance supervisor for Cedar Rapids, said neighbors shouldn't expect a pristine-looking lawn, as the city will use a more rough cut to trim down the grass.

"As buyout homes get demolished, city crews will remove fences and other obstacles and do a more thorough job of cutting grass and controlling weeds," the station said.

Flood problems have affected the Midwest for many years, and 2010 may be no different. Earlier this year, a forecast from the National Weather Service noted spring rains may led to more flooding in that region of the country, which could make both yard care and agricultural efforts difficult.ADNFCR-2034-ID-19808739-ADNFCR